Barry-Sorenson said the idea sounded expensive. The board most likely will only get bids from outside the area, she said.

Board Vice Chairman Laurie Gaylord said the proposal is only to solicit proposals, not to hire someone.

"It doesn't mean we're agreeing with it," Gaylord said.

"Let's see what we get," Hershey said after the vote.

Proposals are due before 5 p.m., April 1. The board could make a decision April 20.

The board is seeking proposals from law firms with experience in labor negotiations to be special counsel to the school district during collective bargaining, according to the request for qualification. The firm selected would be hired for an "indeterminate period."

Proposals will be evaluated based on experience and qualifications of the firm, accessibility and cost-effectiveness.

Members of the Martin County Education Association, which represents the district's teachers, urged the board not to approve the request.

"This board already has three full-time labor attorneys on staff," said Dianne Falvo, Treasure Coast service unit director for the association. "These attorneys are experienced and fully capable."

Hershey said two of the attorneys on staff are not practicing as attorneys.

MCEA member Amy Robertson agreed.

"Such a move would not be fiscally prudent nor cost-effective," she said. "I see no reason to solicit further counsel."

Board members have discussed the need to curb legal spending. Between July and December of the current budget year, almost $41,000 was spent in legal fees. That just above the amount spent for the entire budget year in 2008-2009, and more than double what was spent in the years ending in 2005 and 2008.